La Fortuna, Costa Rica is one of the most popular destinations in the country and for good reason. Surrounded by rainforest, rivers, waterfalls, and the iconic Arenal Volcano, the area offers a wide variety of tours and activities for all types of travelers.
However, with so many options available, choosing the best tours in La Fortuna can feel overwhelming especially if it’s your first time visiting Costa Rica.
This guide breaks down the best tours in La Fortuna, Costa Rica by travel style and age, helping you choose experiences that match your interests, physical level, and travel needs.
Best Tours in La Fortuna for First-Time Visitors
If this is your first visit to Costa Rica, the best tours in La Fortuna are those that combine nature, education, and comfort.
Recommended tours
- Arenal Volcano guided hike: Walk on ancient lava trails while learning about the volcano’s history and local wildlife.
- Sloth tour in La Fortuna: A relaxed wildlife walk with high chances of spotting sloths, toucans, and frogs.
- Hanging bridges tour: Ideal for understanding the rainforest ecosystem without demanding hikes.
These tours offer context and storytelling, making them ideal for travelers who want more than just photos.
Best Family-Friendly Tours in La Fortuna
La Fortuna is one of the most family-friendly destinations in Costa Rica, but not all tours are suitable for kids or seniors.
Family-friendly tour options
- Sloth and wildlife tours with minimal walking
- Chocolate or cultural tours
- Easy Arenal Volcano trails
- Safari float tours on calm rivers
These experiences are safe, educational, and enjoyable for all ages, making them some of the best family-friendly tours in La Fortuna.
Best Adventure Tours in La Fortuna
Adventure travelers will find plenty of adrenaline-filled experiences near La Fortuna.
Top adventure tours
- Zipline in La Fortuna: Glide above the rainforest canopy with stunning views of Arenal Volcano.
- White water rafting on the Sarapiquí River (Class III): The most popular rafting option near La Fortuna, suitable for beginners and active travelers.
- ATV tours through rural landscapes
Important to note: rafting does not take place in La Fortuna town itself. The Sarapiquí River, about 1–1.5 hours away, offers the best and safest rafting conditions.
Best Tours in La Fortuna for Couples
Couples visiting La Fortuna often look for a mix of adventure, scenery, and relaxation.
Ideal tours for couples
- Arenal Volcano hike combined with hot springs
- Zipline tours with scenic views
- Full-day Rio Celeste tour
- Explore Arenal Hanging Bridges
- Private guided tours with flexible schedules
These tours allow couples to enjoy nature at their own pace while avoiding large crowds.
Best Tours in La Fortuna Without a Car
Many travelers explore La Fortuna without renting a car and that’s completely manageable.
Tours with transportation included
- Zipline tours
- Sloth and wildlife tours
- Arenal Volcano hikes
- Rafting Sarapiquí
- Rio Celeste full-day tours
Choosing tours with transportation included saves time, reduces stress, and is often more cost-effective than renting a car.
How to Choose the Best Tour in La Fortuna
Before booking, consider the following:
- Who is traveling (kids, seniors, adults only)?
- How physically active do you want to be?
- Do you prefer adventure, nature, or culture?
- Do you need transportation included?
The best tours in La Fortuna, Costa Rica are the ones that fit your travel style not just the most popular ones.
Why Book Tours with Local Guides in La Fortuna
Local guides bring knowledge that goes beyond the brochure:
- Better wildlife spotting skills
- Real-time weather and trail conditions
- Safer logistics and planning
- Personalized recommendations
Traveling with local guides turns a tour into a meaningful experience rather than just an activity.
Final Thoughts
La Fortuna offers one of the most complete travel experiences in Costa Rica. By choosing the right tours based on your travel style and needs, you’ll enjoy a smoother, safer, and more memorable visit.
Ready to explore La Fortuna the right way?
Discover our carefully selected tours with local guides, flexible schedules, and transportation included.
Explore our La Fortuna tours and plan your adventure with a local expert!
FAQs – Best Tours in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
The best tours in La Fortuna include Arenal Volcano hikes, sloth tours, ziplining, white water rafting on the Sarapiquí River, and wildlife or cultural tours, depending on your travel style.
Yes. Sloth tours, safari floats, chocolate tours, and easy volcano hikes are among the most family-friendly tours in La Fortuna.
No. White water rafting takes place on the Sarapiquí River, about 1–1.5 hours from La Fortuna, where river conditions are ideal and safe.
Yes. Many tours in La Fortuna include transportation from your hotel, making it easy to explore the area without a rental car.
Most travelers spend 3 to 4 days in La Fortuna to enjoy volcano hikes, wildlife tours, adventure activities, and relaxation.
*Original content by Tropiexplore Costa Rica. Última actualización: 23 Ene 2026.*